'When I Hear Our Politicians Say We're Not Gonna Touch Social Security, I Don't Believe Them' – Seniors Are Worried About DOGE Changes

For many older Americans, Social Security is more than just a monthly benefit — it's a financial lifeline. But recent government changes and comments from political leaders are making some seniors feel uneasy about the future of the program.

Concerns Sparked by Government Reorganization

At the center of this growing anxiety is a newly formed federal agency: the Department of Government Efficiency. Created through an executive order under the Trump administration, DOGE has been tasked with modernizing government systems and rooting out inefficiency and fraud. But in doing so, it has made waves by cutting thousands of federal jobs and reorganizing how certain agencies function — including the Social Security Administration, which serves nearly 73 million Americans each month.

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According to CNN, DOGE's overhaul of the SSA has left many seniors, especially those relying solely on benefits, feeling uncertain. At a senior center in Rockland County, New York, CNN  spoke with seniors who expressed their fear that changes could lead to interruptions in their checks.

"I need Social Security — I can't manage without it," Deanna Nichols told CNN. "When I hear one of our politicians say ‘we’re not gonna touch medicare, we’re not gonna touch medicaid or social security,' I don't believe them."

Reactions to Leadership Comments

Although there have been no interruptions to benefits so far, some comments from officials have only added fuel to the fire. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick recently made waves during an appearance on the "All-In Podcast." 

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"Let's say Social Security didn't send out their checks this month," he said. "My mother-in-law, who's 94, she wouldn't call and complain. She just wouldn’t. She’d think something got messed up, and she’ll get it next month. A fraudster always makes the loudest noise, screaming, yelling, and complaining."

That statement didn't sit well with many of the seniors who heard it. Milagros Velazquez, laughed and responded, "I'm a fraud. I'm a fraud cause I want what's due to me." Michael Gioeni, pointed out that many retirees live month to month and can't afford any delays.

Is There Real Risk to Social Security Benefits?

So far, no actual benefit cuts have taken place, and the Trump administration has stated it does not intend to reduce Social Security. However, The Senior Citizens League, or TSCL, warns that DOGE's sweeping access to federal data systems does raise valid questions. 

TSCL Chairman Edward Cates said that DOGE, though aimed at increasing efficiency, should not have direct access to individuals' personal Social Security data without clear, legal justification.

While DOGE is not authorized to delete benefits or directly alter Social Security accounts, seniors are encouraged to stay informed and cautious. Errors or system changes — especially in a brand-new agency — can still cause problems, even unintentionally.

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What Seniors Can Do to Stay Protected

If you're concerned about changes to Social Security or the security of your personal data, TSCL recommends a few important steps:

1. Know your rights under privacy laws, such as the Privacy Act of 1974.
2. Monitor your benefit statements and report anything unusual.
3. Use official websites when checking on benefits or contacting agencies.
4. Enable strong passwords and two-factor authentication on any online accounts.
5. Reach out to trusted individuals for help navigating government services.

A Need for Reassurance

Seniors who've paid into Social Security for decades want to know that what they've earned is safe. As Catherine Baris, another Rockland County senior, told CNN: "We worked for that money… You want to feel that you can pay your bills, that you can eat. These are our golden years. I don't see it."

For now, while Social Security checks are still arriving on time, the broader conversation about how federal efficiency efforts may impact essential programs is far from over.

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